Bali is never getting tired of giving all of us a lot of interesting places, including the beaches, mountains, waterfalls, as well as the sacred places for people to pray. Bali is known as a magical island which has a lot of unique and rich culture along with the mesmerizing landscape.
As we know, the main religion in Balinese culture is Hinduism, however, it is quite different with the Indian ones. The people in Bali believe that in the souls of all things in nature, it is all close to “animism” which enables us to celebrate and respect things around us.
If you love to get around the sacred places to get your mind peaceful or you want to pray, then you should bookmark these 5 sacred places in Bali.
- Uluwatu Temple
Uluwatu Temple is also famous for being one of the sunset view spots in Bali. This temple is located on a cliff at the southwestern tip of Bali. You can enjoy the sunset view here along with the view of the Indian Ocean as the background. This site is always packed with tourists because it is really famous.
Uluwatu Temple is also known as one of the most picturesque postcard-worthy locations. This place is also called as Pura Luhur Uluwatu by the locals. This temple is not only used for praying and sightseeing, however, there are some other activities you can do here, such as watching kecak and fire dance performance.
If you plan to visit this temple, make sure to know the Uluwatu Beach Bali entrance fee and attractions and get ready to have a full and exciting itinerary!
- Lake Batur
You might start questioning how Lake Batur can be considered as one of the sacred places in Bali. Lake Batur is actually a volcanic lake which is honored for being the main source of water for the whole of central Bali. This lake is also associated with Dewi Danu, the goddess of water. The water coming from this lake is rich in minerals and flows the flourishing rice fields in the surrounding area.
Some of the water springs originated from this lake are considered sacred. They are also believed to have healing powers. If you come to Bali, then make sure to visit this lake.
- Mount Batur
Mount Batur is not only a perfect spot for viewing sunrise in Bali, it is also considered as one of the primary sacred mountains on the island. Despite its small size compared to others, Mount Batur is the most active volcano on the island. There’s a legend said that the massive eruption in 1926 wiped the whole village except the holy shrine inside the mountain’s temple. It was perfectly preserved!
Because of its active volcanic activity, the locals believe that it is the dwelling place of Lord Brahma, who is often symbolized with a fire ring. There’s a ritual held by the locals: they bring four sacrifices and offerings to the mountain during sacred ceremonies. This ritual is done to purify the area from evil as well as to keep a balance among the elements of the universe.
Not only being sacred, Mount Batur is also considered as one of the best mountains to hike in Bali during holiday.
- Besakih Temple
The next sacred spot in Bali is Besakih Temple. Besakih Temple is the biggest temple in Bali because it comprises 18 temples scattered over a vast area. This temple is said to be the first built by a Hindu devotee from India, Rsi Markandeya.
Since that time, Besakih Temple has been the center of religious activities for the whole island. It is open to public, however, there are some areas which are strictly reserved only for religious activities.
Visiting this temple requires you to follow some rules, such as wearing conservative clothing covering the body. There are some more rules just like being explained in etiquettes while visiting temples in Bali.
- Tirta Empul Temple
The last but not least, Tirta Empul Temple as a Hindu Balinese water temple. The name itself means “holy water spring”. The spring itself provides the water into the baths, pools and fish ponds.
The worshippers of this temple believe that the spring water this temple provides is sacred and is able to wash away evil spirits. Moreover, it also can give blessings of prosperity, so that they come to the temple to perform ritual purification by taking a bath in the pool.
If you believe this, then you can join taking a bath in the pool. There will be some temple staffs who will guide you about the tradition and the rules.
If you love visiting temples and explore the culture, then you should also put these famous temples in Bali.